World’s Most Unpopular President? Peru’s Dina Boluarte Holds On With Just 2% Approval for Nearly Three Years

World’s Most Unpopular President? Peru’s Dina Boluarte Holds On With Just 2% Approval for Nearly Three Years

Lima, Peru: With an approval rating of just 2%, Peru’s President Dina Boluarte is on track to become the most unpopular head of state in the world, according to international polling agency Ipsos. Nearly 29 months into her presidency, her popularity continues to decline, driven by a string of scandals, corruption allegations, absence controversies, and a surge in gang violence.

The 63-year-old Boluarte is currently facing more than a dozen legal cases. The most notorious is the “Rolexgate” scandal, where she is accused of hiding information about expensive watches and jewelry she allegedly received as gifts. Additionally, she is under investigation for being absent from public duties for two weeks—an absence she claims was due to nasal surgery, not cosmetic enhancement.

However, the most serious charge against her is tied to the deaths of 50 protesters during police crackdowns under her rule—many hold her directly responsible.

Approval Hits Rock Bottom

Alfredo Torres, president of Ipsos Peru, stated, “We may be witnessing the most unpopular head of state in history.” Among the 90 countries where Ipsos conducts polls, Boluarte has the lowest approval rating.

When she assumed office, her approval stood at 21%. It has now plummeted to just 2%.

The Only One to Survive Peru’s Political Turmoil

Despite Peru having gone through six presidents in the past eight years, Boluarte is the only one to have remained in office this long. Notably, she has no party of her own in Congress and survives thanks to support from right-wing parties. Analysts say her longevity in office is due more to political opportunism within the legislature and public apathy.

Political analyst Augusto Álvarez noted, “Boluarte may be the weakest president of the past decade—and that very weakness is her strength. Congress exploits that weakness to pass laws in their own interest.”

Congress Also Accused of Corruption

Peru’s anti-corruption agency Proética has reported that Congress is actively dismantling anti-corruption measures and shielding ethically compromised members.

Economic Performance Offers Some Protection

Boluarte’s strongest shield is Peru’s stable economy. In 2024, the country’s GDP grew by 3.3%, and in the first quarter of 2025, it rose to 3.9%. Inflation remains relatively low. However, analysts argue that this success is not due to government policy but rather the global rise in copper prices—where Peru is a top exporter.

Growing Public Anger and Frustration

Public anger toward Boluarte is widespread. Concerns about gang violence and insecurity are mounting. Saturnino Conde, a 63-year-old teacher, said, “Boluarte is completely incompetent—she shows no empathy.”

Protesters often chant, “Dina, asesina!” (“Dina, murderer!”)—a slogan that has become common among ordinary citizens.

Still, a full-scale uprising or strong push for her removal has yet to emerge. Ipsos’ Torres explained, “People realize that if Dina goes, she’ll be replaced by someone from Congress, whom they trust even less. Moreover, no clear alternative leader has emerged.”